Course content
Welcome to Celtic Mythology and Scottish History, a new eight-week course diving deeper into exploring the powerful stories, spiritual traditions, and turbulent events that have shaped Scotland’s identity across the ages.
From the shadowy groves of the Druids to the mist-shrouded legends of the Highlands, this course will guide you through the rich tapestry of Scotland’s mythological and historical heritage. You'll encounter ancient Celtic belief systems, explore the role of magic and folklore in everyday life, and trace how these traditions endured—or were transformed—through centuries of upheaval, conflict, and cultural change.
We'll begin with the enigmatic Druids, custodians of sacred knowledge in early Celtic society, before moving into the world of Celtic magic and folklore, where spirits, omens, and otherworldly beings were part of the living world. Highland myths and legends will take center stage for two weeks, allowing space to dive deep into the stories, heroes, and supernatural lore rooted in Scotland’s mountainous heartlands.
From there, we shift into the historic turning points that redefined the Highlands and the nation itself: the Jacobite risings and the Battle of Culloden, the painful legacy of the Highland Clearances, and the complex history of witch persecution in Scotland. We’ll conclude by examining how Celtic and Highland traditions continue to influence modern Scottish culture, identity, and revival movements today.
Throughout, we’ll reflect on the deep connections between myth and history, story and survival—tracing how Scotland’s past continues to echo in its present.
Whether you are drawn by ancient mysteries or historical truths, this course offers a unique path through the soul of a nation shaped by both sword and song. Welcome aboard—your journey into Scotland’s mythic heartland begins now.
Each Thursday from 18th September 2025
8 weeks
7 - 8pm
Using Zoom
We will send you the link to join around 24 hours prior to the session starting. If you've never used Zoom before there is a great video below which talks you through using Zoom;
How to Join a Zoom Meeting
These sessions have a very limited number of spaces and are designed for people who have little or no experience in Gaelic.
These sessions are subsidised by our funders Bòrd na Gàidhlig. If you can afford to pay the full price please do so to ensure our lower cost tickets are available for people with no/low income.
If you cannot afford to pay the full price , please contact us for information on a reduced ticket
